Lake Mistletoe Track

What to expect

An easy, family‑friendly loop through lowland beech forest and wetlands to the petite, peaceful Lake Mistletoe. The path is well‑formed with short boardwalk sections, and you’ll likely hear bellbirds and see fantails and robins flitting along the track. Don’t come for big Fiordland drama—come for a quiet 30–45 minute nature reset away from the Milford Road rush.

Route and distance

This is a 1.1‑mile/1.8‑km loop (total) starting from the signed carpark opposite Fiordland National Park Lodge at Te Anau Downs. It wanders gently to the lake viewpoint and closes the circuit with a brief roadside return on State Highway 94—perfectly manageable, but you do need to stay alert around traffic. Expect mostly flat terrain with minor undulations and occasional mud after rain.

Is it worth it?

Yes—if you want a tranquil forest-and-lakeside stroll or a leg‑stretch en route to Milford Sound. Birdlife is a genuine highlight, and the forest feels surprisingly calm given the highway nearby. If you’re chasing towering peaks and waterfalls, other Milford Road walks deliver more spectacle; this one delivers serenity. Dogs aren’t allowed in the national park, and there are no facilities on the track itself.

Best time to hike

Year‑round. Fiordland is famously wet, so pack a rain jacket any month. Spring and summer bring lush greenery and active birds; autumn can add color; winter can be damp or icy underfoot. For photography, early or late light gives the best lake reflections. Sandflies can be fierce near the water—bring repellent.

Essentials

There’s a signposted carpark just off SH94; no toilets or water at the track (the nearby lodge may have facilities). Waterproof walking shoes help after rain. Not fully wheelchair accessible due to roots, steps, and uneven sections.